Sociology of Exorcism in Late Modernity

This book provides a sociological understanding of the phenomenon of exorcism and an analysis of the reasons for its contemporary re-emergence and impact on various communities. It argues that exorcism has become a religious commodity with the potential to strengthen a religion's attraction to adherents, whilst also ensuring its hold. It shows that due to intense competition between religious groups in our multi-faith societies, religious groups are now competing for authority over the supernatural by 'branding' their particular type of exorcism ritual in order to validate the strength of their own belief system.

Sociology of Exorcism in Late Modernity features a detailed case-study of a Catholic exorcist in the south of Europe who dealt with more than 1,000 cases during a decade of work.

Offers a detailed case-study of the notes taken by an experienced Catholic exorcist over a ten-year period, dealing with more than 1,000 cases Provides a sociological update on the phenomenon of exorcism in western countries Points to an 'over-policing of the devil' in contemporary societies, coinciding with an increase in the demand and presence of experts

Autorentext

Giuseppe Giordan is Associate Professor of Sociology of Religion at the University of Padua, Italy.

Adam Possamai is Professor of Sociology and Director of Research at the School of Social Sciences and Psychology, Western Sydney University, Australia.

Inhalt

1. Introduction .- 2. The Sociology of Exorcism .- 3. Case Study of Catholic Exorcism: Visiting an Exorcist .- 4. Case Study of Catholic Exorcism: Undergoing Exorcism .- 5. Religious Competition over Exorcism .- 6. The Over-policing, and Decriminalizing, of the Devil .